Hamas militants plan talks with Putin

Militants plan talks with Putin

Associated Press

Published 6:30 am, Sunday, February 12, 2006

JERUSALEM - Hamas militants confirmed Saturday that they plan to travel to Moscow this month for talks with President Vladimir Putin, a trip that has enraged Israeli leaders, who fear the international community's resolve to shun the Islamic group is weakening.

Hamas said it does not expect Russia to impose any conditions on the group, despite U.S. calls for Moscow to send a clear message that Hamas halt attacks on Israel and recognize the Jewish state.

"We are going to present our positions ... about the political developments and issues related to the rights of our people," said Sami Abu Zuhri, a Hamas spokesman in Gaza.